Barolo Riserva (1982)

About this wine

The 1982 Fontanafredda Barolo Riserva presents a deep garnet color with brick-red highlights, a characteristic of well-aged Barolos. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of dried roses, leather, and earthy notes, reflecting its maturity. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, showcasing flavors of tobacco, oak, and subtle vanilla, complemented by hints of cherry and raspberry. This wine has undergone traditional fermentation and extended aging in large oak casks, contributing to its robust structure and longevity. As a Riserva, it has been aged for at least five years before release, ensuring a well-balanced and persistent finish.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 1982 Fontanafredda Barolo Riserva, is native to Italy's Piedmont region and has been cultivated since at least the 13th century. Its name likely comes from 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog,' reflecting the misty conditions during its late October harvest. Historically, Nebbiolo was used to produce sweet wines until the mid-19th century, when winemakers like Louis Oudart introduced techniques to ferment it dry, leading to the creation of modern Barolo. This transformation earned Barolo the title 'the wine of kings, the king of wines,' highlighting its esteemed status.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1982 vintage of Fontanafredda's Barolo Riserva is renowned for its powerful tannins and firm acidity, contributing to its exceptional aging potential.
• 🏞️ Fontanafredda's estate spans 250 acres in Serralunga d'Alba, making it the largest contiguous wine estate in the Langhe region.
• 👑 Established in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II as a gift to his mistress, Rosa Vercellana, Fontanafredda has a royal heritage that adds to its allure.
• 🍇 The 1982 Barolo Riserva is crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, known for their high acidity and tannins, which contribute to the wine's longevity and complexity.
• 🤴 Barolo is often referred to as 'the king of wines and the wine of kings,' a testament to its esteemed status and noble history.

Palate profile

Producer

Fontanafredda, established in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II of Italy, began as a gift to his beloved Rosa Vercellana, known as "La Bela Rusin." Located in Serralunga d'Alba, Piedmont, the estate spans approximately 120 hectares and is renowned for its Barolo wines. In 1964, Fontanafredda produced the first single-vineyard Barolo, Vigna La Rosa, marking a significant milestone in winemaking. Embracing sustainability, the winery transitioned to organic farming, becoming the largest certified organic winery in Piedmont by 2018. In 2017, Wine Enthusiast honored Fontanafredda as "European Winery of the Year," recognizing its commitment to quality and innovation.